Healthcare Finance News Highlights
The healthcare finance sector has seen several significant developments recently. Inpatient rehabilitation facilities are facing a proposed 2.6% payment increase. Modernizing healthcare payment systems is crucial, starting with reducing cash collections. MD Anderson and UT Austin have joined forces to focus on cancer research. Orlando Health and Watson Clinic are partnering on a new hospital project.
Financial Updates
- Inpatient psychiatric facilities are set to receive a 2.4% increase in the proposed rule.
- CMS is proposing a 2.4% increase for hospice care.
- Health system operating margins declined in August.
- Physician pay has risen, but attitudes toward compensation are declining.
Operational Challenges
- The revenue cycle is challenged by low collection rates and high denials.
- Tariffs are expected to impact supply chain and balance sheet stability.
- Payers’ member digital experiences are lagging behind other industries.
Regulatory and Policy Changes
- The AHA and Health-ISAC have warned hospitals of a potential terrorist attack.
- The FBI has stated that the terrorist threat against hospitals is not credible.
- Trump’s executive order on drugs aims to end the pharma ‘pill penalty’.
- CMS is seeking public input on inpatient hospital whole-person care.
Market Developments
- Enrollment in ACA exchanges has seen significant growth.
- CareSource has finalized the acquisition of Commonwealth Care Alliance.
- UPMC for You is offering Medicaid redetermination coverage in non-traditional locations like laundromats.
The healthcare finance landscape continues to evolve with these developments impacting various aspects of the industry.
